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What Happened to Bluewater Yachts? The Inside Story

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Bluewater Yachts, once a shining star in the yacht manufacturing industry, faced a tumultuous journey that ultimately led to its downfall. The story of Bluewater Yachts is a rollercoaster of success, challenges, and ultimately, bankruptcy. Let’s delve into the inside story of what happened to this iconic company.

History of Bluewater Yachts

Bluewater Yachts has a rich history that dates back to its founding in the early 1960s by a group of passionate yachting enthusiasts. The company quickly gained recognition for its commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative designs, setting a new standard in the yachting industry. Bluewater Yachts’ early success can be attributed to its focus on creating luxurious and seaworthy vessels that captivated the hearts of yacht enthusiasts worldwide.

As the years went by, Bluewater Yachts continued to push boundaries with its cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking approach to yacht design. The company’s dedication to excellence earned it a reputation as a trendsetter in the industry, with each new model showcasing the latest advancements and luxurious amenities.

Bluewater Yachts’ impact on the yachting world was profound, influencing design trends and setting new standards for performance and comfort on the open seas. The company’s legacy is one of innovation, style, and a commitment to creating unforgettable experiences for yacht owners around the globe.

Challenges Faced by Bluewater Yachts

Bluewater Yachts faced a myriad of challenges that ultimately contributed to its downfall. The company grappled with:

• Economic Downturns: Fluctuating economic conditions impacted consumer spending on luxury items like yachts.
• Intense Competition: Rival yacht manufacturers vied for market share, intensifying the competitive landscape.
• Shifting Consumer Preferences: Changes in consumer tastes and preferences posed challenges in meeting evolving demands.
• Management Issues: Internal struggles, leadership changes, and decision-making processes affected operations.

These challenges created a perfect storm for Bluewater Yachts, leading to a cascade of difficulties that the company struggled to overcome.

Financial Struggles and Bankruptcy

Bluewater Yachts faced significant financial struggles that ultimately led to its declaration of bankruptcy. The company’s journey from prosperity to insolvency was marked by a series of challenges that proved insurmountable.

One of the primary factors contributing to Bluewater Yachts’ financial woes was the accumulation of substantial debt burdens over time. These financial obligations, coupled with cash flow problems, placed immense strain on the company’s operations and ability to sustain itself in a competitive market.

The global financial crisis further exacerbated Bluewater Yachts’ financial predicament, as the economic downturn hindered consumer spending on luxury items like yachts. This downturn in demand, combined with increased competition from other yacht manufacturers, created a perfect storm for the company.

As a result, Bluewater Yachts was forced to file for bankruptcy, a move that had far-reaching repercussions for its employees, suppliers, dealers, and the broader yachting industry. The closure of the company had a ripple effect on the local community, highlighting the interconnected nature of businesses within an industry.

In hindsight, the financial struggles and eventual bankruptcy of Bluewater Yachts serve as a cautionary tale about the importance of financial management, adaptability in changing market conditions, and the need for strategic planning to navigate turbulent economic waters.

Impact on Employees and Stakeholders

When Bluewater Yachts faced financial turmoil and eventually declared bankruptcy, the impact rippled through its employees and stakeholders. Employees who had dedicated their careers to the company found themselves facing uncertainty and job loss. Suppliers and dealers who relied on Bluewater Yachts for business saw their revenue streams disrupted. The local community, which had benefitted from the company’s presence, felt the effects of its downfall in the form of lost jobs and economic downturn.

Stakeholders, including investors and creditors, faced financial losses as the company struggled to stay afloat. The once-thriving network of individuals and businesses connected to Bluewater Yachts now had to navigate the aftermath of its collapse. The emotional and financial toll on those involved was significant, highlighting the interconnected nature of the yachting industry and the broader implications of a company’s failure.

Lessons Learned from Bluewater Yachts’ Story

When delving into the , it becomes evident that adaptability was a key factor in the company’s success. Bluewater Yachts’ ability to innovate and evolve with changing consumer preferences allowed them to stay ahead of the competition. Additionally, financial prudence played a crucial role in sustaining the business during economic downturns. By managing debt burdens effectively and maintaining a healthy cash flow, Bluewater Yachts could have potentially avoided the path to bankruptcy. Strategic planning is another lesson to be learned from their story. A clear long-term vision and effective execution of plans are essential for any business to thrive in a competitive market.

Legacy of Bluewater Yachts

Bluewater Yachts left a lasting legacy in the yachting world, shaping design trends and technological advancements for years to come. The company’s commitment to innovation and quality set a benchmark for the industry, influencing how yachts were built and designed. Bluewater Yachts also created unforgettable memories for its customers, providing them with luxurious and reliable vessels that stood the test of time.

Moreover, the legacy of Bluewater Yachts extended beyond its products. The company’s ethos of excellence and craftsmanship inspired a new generation of yacht builders and enthusiasts. Its influence can be seen in the continued pursuit of excellence in yacht design and construction, with many companies striving to emulate the standards set by Bluewater Yachts.

The Future of Bluewater Yachts’ Brand

As we gaze into the crystal ball to envision the future of Bluewater Yachts’ brand, one can’t help but wonder about the potential twists and turns that lie ahead. Will this once-revered name in the yachting industry rise from the ashes like a phoenix, or will it fade into obscurity like a forgotten relic of the past? Let’s delve into the possibilities and challenges that may shape the destiny of Bluewater Yachts:

• Potential Revival: Despite its tumultuous history, there remains a glimmer of hope for the resurrection of Bluewater Yachts. With strategic planning, innovative marketing, and a fresh perspective, the brand could make a triumphant comeback, capturing the hearts of yachting enthusiasts once again.
• Challenges Ahead: However, the road to redemption is fraught with obstacles. Intense competition, evolving consumer tastes, and the need to rebuild trust in the brand pose significant hurdles that must be overcome. It will require a Herculean effort to navigate these treacherous waters and steer Bluewater Yachts back to prosperity.

Frequently Asked Questions

• What led to the downfall of Bluewater Yachts? The decline of Bluewater Yachts was primarily caused by a combination of financial struggles, management issues, changing consumer preferences, and the impact of the global financial crisis.
• Were there any lessons to be learned from the Bluewater Yachts story? Absolutely, the saga of Bluewater Yachts teaches us important lessons about the significance of adaptability, financial prudence, strategic planning, and maintaining strong customer relationships in the business world.
• Is there a possibility of Bluewater Yachts making a comeback in the future? While it’s uncertain, there is always a chance for a brand to revive or reinvent itself. The potential revival of Bluewater Yachts would come with challenges, but it’s not entirely out of the realm of possibility.
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Home » Blog » Travel » What makes a bluewater boat?

What makes a bluewater boat?

By Author Robin Urquhart

Posted on Last updated: March 29, 2023

WHAT ARE THE ESSENTIAL FEATURES OF A BLUEWATER SAILBOAT?

One of the oldest debates in the sailing community surrounds the essential features of a bluewater boat . After buying a boat and crossing the Pacific we began to seriously question our definition of a bluewater sailboat and surveyed 56 boats that crossed the Pacific in 2016-2017 to find out what they had , what they didn’t, and whether it made a difference in their passage.

We also have a list of the 10 best bluewater sailboats (we analyzed 2,000 bluewater boats to find out!).

Note: This post was adapted from my April 2018 article in Ocean Navigator

6 CHARACTERISTICS OF A BLUEWATER YACHT

The traditional consensus seems to be that the “bluewaterness” of an offshore yacht boils down to six main elements . A full discussion on each feature is included below. According to many, the best bluewater sailboats have:

• Cutter or ketch rig
• Skeg-hung rudder
• Heavy displacement
• Reputable offshore builder
• Large water and diesel tanks

This legitimacy of this list was bolstered by John Neal’s Boats to Consider for Offshore Cruising .   We paid attention because John Neal has sailed over 350 000 miles (including six Cape Horn roundings) and is considered a leading expert in offshore sailboat preparation.

BUYING A CRUISING SAILBOAT

When we set ourselves the goal of bluewater cruising from Vancouver to Australia, we asked as many people as we could about what we should be looking for in a good ocean-going boat. As we looked around for a suitable sailboat we were dismayed to find that very few had all the characteristics we were recommended and almost none in our price range . The ones that did felt so old and clunky that we couldn’t imagine enjoying sailing them. As one enthusiastic seller said to us, “Takes her 20 knots of wind to start moving, but when she does, she’s a freight-train.” See this post for the best places to find bluewater boats for sale.

A MATTER OF COMPROMISE

We began to ask questions, “Do we really need a full keel?” “Can we get by with a spade rudder?”  In the end we compromised. We went with a boat that met some of the requirements, but not all. 

We settled on a Dufour 35, built in 1979. It had a solid fibreglass hull and skeg-hung rudder, but was billed as a racer-cruiser when it came off the assembly line. As such, the tankage was minimal, she doesn’t have a fin keel and isn’t a cutter. She also has a balsa-core deck to save on weight. We were emboldened by the report that many others had sailed around the world in this model of boat and she did appear in John Neal’s list of acceptable offshore boats, although without glowing remarks.

THE SURPRISING RESULTS

We were never fully confident in our little Dufour as an offshore sailer until we got to the Marquesas. It wasn’t only that she got us there in one piece, but more that upon arriving we saw boats of all ranges and shapes . We saw new Beneteaus and Jeaneaus and even Hunters; all light displacement, fin keel, spade rudder, no bilge, fractional rigged sloops. “What’s going on?” I asked myself, “How did all these non-offshore boats get here?” 

BY THE NUMBERS – A SURVEY OF 56 BOATS THAT CROSSED THE PACIFIC IN 2016-2017

Intrigued by this surprising revelation I decided to learn more about what kind of boats cross the ocean. I gathered data from 56 boats that crossed the Pacific between 2016-2017 and researched their features to see how many checked the boxes on the bluewater list. The results called into question the traditional definition of a bluewater sailboat and reflect advances in weather forecasting and navigation. A full list of the boats is provided below.

ONLY 16% of BOATS MET ALL THE CRITERIA FOR A BLUEWATER BOAT

Of the 56 boats examined in this study 9 (16%) met all the above criteria for a bluewater cruiser. On average the boats met less than half (41%) of the criteria. The two most often met criteria were large storage capacity and heavy displacement, which are usually linked.  Cutter rigs were popular designs, while ketches were few and far between.  A full discussion of each feature is included below.

The most common rig type turned out to be a cutter rig (40%) , followed by fractional sloop rigs (27%) and closely thereafter by masthead sloops (26%).  The more modern designed, light-displacement boats usually feature fractional rigs.  Ketches (7%) filled out the rest of the fleet.

Cutter rigs

The main advantage of a cutter rig is the ability to fly a stay sail or storm jib from the inner forestay, which provides more options for both light wind and heavy weather.  Keeping the centre of effort close to the centre of the boat is more efficient and more comfortable in heavy weather. The secondary advantage of a cutter is having a backup forestay already installed should the main forestay fail.   Owners of masthead sloops often install Solent stays to provide some of the same benefits of a cutter.  We did this, but in the end it only gets in the way and we never use it.

Fractional sloop rigs vs. Masthead Sloops

The main advantage of a fractional sloop is easier sailing handling. The jib is smaller on a fractional rig than a masthead rig and makes gybing and tacking easier . Also the spinnakers tend to be smaller on fractional rigs and easier to fly for most cruising couples or shorthanded crews. As wind speeds pick up the main is reefed while the can jib remain full up to certain wind speeds. This makes reefing easier and improves efficiency as reefed headsails have notoriously poor shape and move away from the centre of effort as they are reefed.

For the purposes of my survey, keel shapes weren’t defined beyond long keel or fin keel . I grouped cutaway forefoot and full keels under long keels, and winged keels or bulbed keels under fin keels. Only a quarter of the boats had long keels.   As seen with the fractional rigs, modern designs overwhelmingly use a fin keel to provide lateral resistance.  Over 13% of the boats were catamarans and don’t really fit into either category.

A long keel has many advantages and many detractors.

• A full keel is usually encapsulated in the hull, making the connection stronger than a bolted-on, fin keel.
• A long keel boat is easier to make heave-to as it doesn’t pivot on the keel the way a fin keel does.
• Also, a full-keeled boat tracks better, especially going downwind in large seas, preventing the roundups on waves that are associated with many fin keel designs, ours included.
• The main detractor of a long keel is that it is much less efficient than a fin keel , which means significantly reduced boat speed.
• It also makes tacking or gybing more difficult and sometimes impossible in light air with a full keel.
• The same problem extends to motoring around the marina or anchorage, where the long keel makes quick and tight turns unfeasible.

A slight majority of boats have spade rudders (52%) .  The rest have skeg-hung (27%) or attached (21%) rudders.

In 2017, of the boats in this study, five developed rudder issues during the crossing.  Two spade rudders delaminated and one seized, while the two skeg-hung rudders developed leaks around the rudder posts.  Most of the boats with spade rudders I talked to did not strengthen their rudder posts, but left the factory post in place.

Skeg-hung and keel-attached rudders

Skeg-hung and attached rudders have an obvious advantage in that they are protected from direct impact. The pressure on the leading edge of the rudder is also greatly reduced, putting less strain on the rudder post.  An added advantage is that fishing lines and other marine debris can’t get caught in between the rudder and the hull. As with a full keel the main detractor is diminished sailing performance.

Spade rudders

A spade rudder acts like a wing under water. It’s ability to cant with the turn, and fine leading edge make it much more efficient than a skeg-hung rudder. The rudder design makes the boat more responsive to changes in course as well as enhancing overall speed.

DISPLACEMENT

The definition of heavy displacement is anything with a Displacement/Length Ratio (DLR) of 270 – 360.  Moderate displacement is anything between 180-270 and light displacement is any DLR under 180.  Roughly 51% of the boats that crossed could be considered heavy displacement.   The rest mirror the rig types, with 27% falling into the light displacement category and 22% under the moderate displacement label.

A heavier boat will be more comfortable in heavy weather and is usually more robust all around.  One of the Dufour 35s (moderate to heavy displacement) that crossed in 2017 had just completed the Northwest Passage where they collided with an iceberg at 7 knots and suffered absolutely no damage. Similarly a CT 41 (heavy displacement) this year hit a coral head at 6 knots and received minimal fibreglass damage at the front of the keel.

But heavy also means slow, especially in light air.   A fast boat can sail through conditions in which a heavier design would languish or be forced to motor.  It can also move more quickly and often avoid weather systems .  While you might not want to get caught in a storm in a light displacement boat, the view is you might not have to.

REPUTABLE OFFSHORE BUILDER

Defining a boatyard as a reputable offshore boatyard is a dangerous and ultimately futile exercise.  Beneteaus, Jeanneaus and Lagoons make up 20% of the boats in the survey group.  They are reputable production boats, but are not known for making offshore boats.  The rest make up the gamut of other builders, including: Deerfoot, Dufour, Fontaine Pajot, Hans Christian, Hunter, Island Packet, Lapworth, Morgan, Ovni, Pacific Seacraft, Tartan, Valiant , etc.  Some are known as offshore builders, while others are not.  Only 33% are on John Neal’s list of recommended cruising boats.

LARGE STORAGE CAPACITY

This is one criterion that seems to be consistent across the board. 71% of the boats were listed as having relatively large, factory built, water and fuel storage capacity .  Boats that don’t have factory-built large tankage are often augmented for long distance cruising.  Our own Dufour has had a diesel tank added and two water tanks to make it more comfortable on long passages as well as extra cabinetry installed.  Friends of ours on a newer Dufour make up the difference with umpteen jerry jugs to hold diesel and water.

SO, WHY ARE ALL THESE NON-BLUEWATER BOATS ABLE TO CROSS AN OCEAN?

The list of boats that successfully made it across the Pacific in the last couple of years does challenge the traditionalist perspective about essential offshore elements.  What explains the difference between what we think should be able to cross an ocean and what is actually crossing?  The most likely explanations are: weather forecasting and preventative maintenance.

WEATHER FORECASTING AND GPS

The difference might be explained by technological advances, specifically access to better weather forecasting and the advent of GPS.   These combined mean that, for the most part, heavy weather and rough seas can be avoided, especially big lower pressure systems . It is rare for a boat that has access to daily weather forecasts to get caught by a large storm. For heavy weather avoidance, the big slow boats are at a disadvantage because they can’t use light winds to sail through large areas and might not be able to move fast enough to avoid an approaching system. The longer a passage takes, the more exposed the boat and crew are to inclement weather.

Based on data gathered from over 150 boats that crossed the Pacific in the last 6 years (2012-2017), the average maximum reported windspeed was 32 knots , with 82% of boats reporting maximum windspeeds below 40 knots.  The high windspeeds were almost always due to squalls around the equator and lasted less than 40 minutes.  Almost any ocean-going sailboat can handle this windspeed and the accompanying sea state.

PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE AND SPARES

So many of the problems associated with any boat can be avoided through regular maintenance and checkups. Small issues can often be easily managed with the right spares and tools before they become larger catastrophic problems. this rule applies to all boats whether they are going offshore or not.

Of the 150+ boats that crossed in the last 6 years, only 16 reported no significant breakages during the crossing and the overwhelming reason touted by these sailors was preventative maintenance. The rest who had significant gear failures were almost always able to manage a repair at sea with the right spares and tools onboard.  Only a few required being towed into port and none were abandoned.

SO, WHAT EXACTLY MAKES A BLUEWATER BOAT?

You do. It is neither my intention to end the bluewater boat debate, not to recommend one style over another. Windspeed and sea state are not the only factors to consider when offshore cruising. There are also fishing lines and nets, coral heads and other obstructions, constant wear and tear on gear, comfort below decks, galley design, sea berths, and many other factors. Picking the right boat for offshore cruising is a personal experience. The most important thing is that you know the boat and feel comfortable sailing her in a variety of conditions.

LIST OF BOAT MAKES & MODELS FROM SURVEY

Able Apogee 50

Beneteau Cyclades 50.5

Beneteau Oceanis 50

Beneteau First 35

Beneteau Oceanis 461

Bristol Chl Cutter 28

Catalina 440

Catana 431 (cat)

Crealock 37

Crowther 10m (cat)

Deerfoot 60

Discovery 55

Endeavor 43

Engelmann 50

Fontaine Pajot 46 (cat)

Gulfstar 50

Hans Christian 38

Hans Christian 38T

Island Packet 38

Island Packet 380

Island Packet 40

Island Spirit 40 (cat)

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42 DS

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45.2

Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 45 DS

Lagoon 440 (cat)

Lagoon 450 (cat)

Lagoon 60 (cat)

Lapworth 50

Laurent Giles 18m

Lidgard 50 (cat)

Looping 48 (cat)

Morgan O/I 51

Morgan N/M 456

Orams 48 (cat)

Outbound 46

Pacific Seacraft 48

Pan Oceanic 46

Peterson 44

Privilege 39 (cat)

Tartan 3800 OC

Tradewind 35

Young Sun 35

Robin was born and raised in the Canadian North. His first memory of travel on water was by dogsled across a frozen lake. After studying environmental science and engineering he moved to Vancouver aboard a 35’ sailboat with his partner, Fiona, with the idea to fix up the boat and sail around the world. He has written for several sailing publications including SAIL, Cruising World, and was previously a contributing editor at Good Old Boat.

Saturday 21st of September 2019

Missing on the list but in the top 10: Hallberg Rassy and Rustler.

Very nice and thorough article.

I think where sailors get hung up is the difference between the words 'best' and 'capable'. Everyone wants 'best'. But how many can afford it??

I was once told our 28' Hunter wasn't 'capable' of going to the Bahamas. That is not true, it is very 'capable' of traveling from southern Florida to the Bahamas. Is it 'capable' to live on, have enough water, etc for a long stay while there?? Probably not. At least, I wouldn't want to do it. But I would do a week trip if I had the time and weather window available.

A boat is 'capable' depending on the needs and abilities of the sailors crewing and the adventure planned for her. I wouldn't dream of crossing the Atlantic on her.

But I know of a few captains that would enjoy the challenge!

Thanks for providing such a detailed discussion.

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SALT Sold By Bluewater: Elegance, Style And Well-Balanced Spaces

SALT, an immaculate example of the popular SL106 model, has found a new owner through Bluewater. Designed by the renowned Francesco Paszkowski, this sporty yet distinguished yacht epitomises sophistication with its modern interior and well-balanced spaces.

A Masterpiece of Design and Engineering

SALT, built by Sanlorenzo in 2019, measures 32.2 meters (106 feet) in length and showcases the perfect blend of performance and luxury. With a range of 1406 nautical miles at 11 knots and a cruising speed of 22 knots, this yacht is designed for both leisurely cruises and swift travels. It comes equipped with stabilisers both underway and at anchor, ensuring maximum comfort for all guests.

Luxurious Accommodation and Layout

The yacht features a flexible layout, accommodating up to 11 guests in five generous staterooms. The design allows for an abundance of natural light and provides fabulous views, making every moment on board a visual delight. The main deck boasts an ingenious path that connects the salon with the dining room and family lounge, creating a seamless spatial continuity from stern to prow.

On-Deck Relaxation and Entertainment

SALT offers several inviting areas for rest and relaxation, including spaces for alfresco dining and sunbathing. The open-plan saloon features a drop-down balcony, enhancing the indoor-outdoor living experience. The full-beam main deck master cabin offers 180-degree views, providing a breathtaking panorama for the primary guests.

High Specifications and Extended Warranties

The yacht is outfitted with very high specifications and an extensive options list. The large windows throughout ensure fabulous light and views, contributing to the luxurious ambience. Additionally, the main engines and gearboxes come with an extended MTU warranty, providing peace of mind for the new owner.

Key Features of SALT

• Stabilisers both underway and at anchor
• Amazing open-plan saloon with a drop-down balcony
• Full-beam main deck master cabin with 180-degree views
• Large windows creating fabulous light and views
• Flexible layout with accommodation for up to 11 guests
• Extended MTU warranty on main engines and gearboxes 

Specifications

• Type : Motor Yacht
• Build : Sanlorenzo
• Year : 2019
• Length : 32.2m (106ft)
• Guests : 11
• Speed : 22 knots (cruising)

For further information about the sale or to inquire about similar opportunities, contact Tom Barnes, Yacht Sales & Charter Specialist at Bluewater.

Contact Information:

• Yacht Sales & Charter Specialist
• +33 620 18 17 34

The sale of SALT marks another successful transaction for Bluewater, demonstrating our expertise and commitment to providing exceptional service in the luxury yacht market.

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The best bluewater multihulls of all time: a complete guide

• Toby Hodges
• October 6, 2021

Toby Hodges and François Tregouet consider the best bluewater multihulls and look at the options for sailing the oceans in spacious comfort

What are the best bluewater multihulls for long term cruising? The one you own, or the one you can afford is the simple answer.

There is a wealth of proven designs to suit bluewater sailing and a variety of budgets. While we have focussed here on the best bluewater multihulls in production, we’ve also included some cracking pedigree multihulls which tour the planet and might occasionally pop up on the brokerage market.

If you can afford to, then pushing towards the 45-50ft length will buy you space, pace and that extra payload capacity needed to take all the items you’d want on your home afloat.

When looking at the best bluewater multihulls, the choice will come down to that perennial balance between comfort/space and speed/weight. Choosing a lighter weight performance design will obviously help you cover distance voyages more rapidly and potentially allow you to outrun weather systems. It means you can sail faster, with less sail up and less load and stress. But you’ll have to sacrifice some luxuries and need to be quite scrupulous about keeping weight down and centralised in order to maintain high average speeds.

For the majority of cruisers, however, it is the amount of space multihulls offer once you’ve reached your destination that really appeals. As well as the non-heeling living area and real estate they provide, they’re well suited to typical tradewind sailing .

If you’re considering your first or next multihull, we hope the following will serve as a taster.

Best bluewater multihulls for performance cruising

Outremer 51/55.

When you think of multihulls designed for bluewater cruising, Outremer will likely be one of the first names that comes to mind. Its heritage lies in building catamarans that can sail fast and are built strong enough to do laps of the globe.

The 51, the current version of which launched three years ago, is an archetypal example of what to look for in terms of blending speed and space is a dream design for a family circumnavigation.

The French yard’s new 55ft VPLP design may look boldly different from its past models, but the philosophy behind it remains the same. It is designed to match windspeed up to 12 knots and Outremer reasons that its ability to sail in 5 knots of breeze will allow it to sail for 95% of the time on a circumnavigation.

Read more about the Outremer 51 and Outremer 55.

Photo: Diego Yriarte

Seawind 1600/1370

For nearly four decades the Australian Seawind brand and its founder Richard Ward have been gearing catamarans around safe bluewater sailing, including performance, protection and ease of handling. Its Reichel Pugh-designed 1600, which launched three years ago, is an elegant looking cat with relatively low, long lines and some smart solutions for fast bluewater sailing.

Seawind also launches its new 1370 later this year, a staggering 60 of which have sold on plans alone.

This first 50 is built from a composite sandwich of basalt fibre, a cloth made from volcanic rock, and PET foam from recycled plastic bottles, which helps to reduce carbon emissions by nearly 50% when compared with traditional glassfibre methods.

This new 50 footer is perhaps a more appealing and practical prospect than Rapido’s previous 60 (with its significant fixed beam), particularly as the amas on this new model can fold to reduce beam to 18ft.

Infused carbon foam sandwich construction is used, along with beams, daggerboards and rudder in pre-preg carbon to keep displacement to 8,200kg.

Read more about the Rapido 50

This OC50 is designed as a more affordable cruising alternative, than the HH models which have preceeded it. This model targets ocean sailing.

It’s still stiffened and strengthened by carbon, but built in vinylester composites with a gelcoat finish. This adds an additional 300kg or so over a full carbon HH50, but cost savings are in the region of $400,000.

Read more about the HH OC50

Balance 526

The 526 launched four years ago, designed to suit short-handed sailors and families looking to sail long distances, hence it can carry large payloads and promises easy maintenance. It looks good too.

Berman’s Versahelm design is a key feature. The wheel cantilevers, allowing the helmsman to steer from outboard with clear sightlines or from the hardtop protection of the aft cockpit.

Photo: Christopher White

Atlantic 47

The A47 suits short-handed fast ocean sailing at an approachable size. Lengthening it to 49ft allowed for an aft cockpit. It is available as a sloop or with White’s patented MastFoil ketch rig – rotating aerofoil masts designed for easy short-handed cruising without sacrificing performance.

Read more about the Atlantic 47

A combination of sharp design from François Perus and high build quality brings plenty of appeal to this sporty Italian-built cat. The first example launched three years ago with a light displacement of 10.5 tonnes, thanks to an E-glass epoxy-infused build with carbon strengthening. The yard offers semi-custom construction and full hybrid packages.

Catana 53/Ocean class 50

Catana’s performance model from 2017, sports twin aft helms (which may not suit ocean sailors), reverse bows and carbon daggerboards. The high topsides help create good bridgedeck clearance and plenty of accommodation. Its new Ocean Class 50 seems more in the shipyard’s bluewater DNA. The light weight, and dynamic and modern shape with slim hulls and a relatively short nacelle suggests a seaworthy nature and high speeds.

Read more about the Catana 53

Best bluewater multihulls for pedigree performance

Veteran multihull designers Morrelli & Melvin designed this smaller model for the Gunboat range. It was built to be more manageable for an owner-driver yet still capable of up to 300-400 mile days.

The Gunboat 48 is something of a rare breed, just six 48s were built between 2004 and 2009. Oh, to have a spare €1.3m right now… one of them is actually on the market.

Read more about the Gunboat 48

At the start of the Millennium, Catana offered fully equipped boats as standard for long distance cruising. The Catana 471 or 472 (one or two helms respectively), represented at the time the optimum in ocean-going catamarans.

Chincogan/Lightwave

Tony Grainger has been drawing fast multihulls for 35 years, including racing trimarans and the Lightwave and Chincogan cruisers. The popular Lightwave 38 has admirable performance and comfort, and the Chincogan 52 (pictured) has the length to clock high average speeds.

Outremer 45 G. Danson

With its characteristic roof, narrow hulls and daggerboards, the Outremer 45 is a standout design which has become somewhat iconic. Despite a rather spartan interior, it has been a great success with fast cruising enthusiasts. On board, family ocean crossings at an average of 10 knots are the norm.

Best bluewater multihulls for family cruising

Photo: Nicolas Claris

The Lagoon 450 remains the most popular model in Lagoons already popular range. It exemplifies the VPLP/Nauta design partnership which has made these the very definition of modern mid-size cruising catamarans which can appeal to families and charterers alike.

Indeed the 450 marked the modern look of Lagoon and was the first with interior styling from Nauta. It originally launched over a decade ago as a flybridge design with central helming position (450F), before this ‘sport top’ option (450S) was offered with a starboard helm station and lower boom.

Read more about the Lagoon 450

Photo: Guilain Grenier

Fountaine Pajot Saona 47

The 47 has a modern shape, with straight bows and a reverse sheer line. It incorporates significant volume in the hulls below the bridgedeck to create room for the optional athwartships cabins. Cabin space is a prime selling point, particularly the owner’s suite to port, where there is also abundant natural light and headroom.

Photo: Tui Marine

Leopard Catamarans, together with designer Simonis Voogd and builder Robertson and Caine, produce the archetypal dual-purpose owner-operator or charter boat in their modern catamaran range.

Key features of the 45 are the amount of light in the saloon and the incredible volume and space on offer in the cabins above the relatively narrow waterlines. Vast social living areas include the flybridge, saloon and dual cockpits.

Read more about the Leopard 45

Photo: www.jfromero.fr

Nautitech Open/Fly 46

During the 1990s and noughties Nautitech earned a good reputation for its elegant catamarans. The 441 is a timeless example and the 44 can be credited with the ongoing trend in hardtop biminis. While its acquisition by Bavaria seven years ago helped Nautitech implement industrial build techniques, the French brand has retained its DNA at its Rochefort sur Mer yard.

The modern Marc Lombard designs have tall rigs with generous square-top mainsails. Twin wheels in the aft quarters of the Open 46 offer a direct feel on the helm, however those spending long periods in the tropics may prefer the shade of the bimini-equipped flybridge option. The layout is also open, with a saloon more outside than in. Styling is clean, modern and simple, and the standard of build and finish are good.

Photo: Olivier Blanchet

First impressions of the Neel 51 are sure to centre on its sheer size and space inside. But as you’ll see from our review of the Neel 43 on page 83, when you sail one overriding impressions quickly centre on its performance.

These trimarans are becoming a popular mass production-built option.

Photo: Christophe Launay

The Excess 11 packs plenty of potential as the smallest yacht offered by the big production yards. A little like the Lagoon 380 of old, it presents a good value new entry-level boat for genuine cruising in a more sporty, modern and enticing design. Some may argue against aft helms for ocean sailing, but those coming from monohulls will appreciate the more direct steering they offer.

Broadblue 385S

Broadblue is a UK brand which offers a distinct line of cruising and Rapier performance catamarans. Its staple 385 packs a lot of cruising comfort into its length, including generous tankage, and has been sailed all over the world. Broadblue built its first electric drive catamaran 12 years ago and offers the only all-electric production sailing catamaran under 40ft in Europe.

Photo: Christophe Breschi

Bali Catspace

For those looking for maximum volume within 40ft, it’ll be hard to beat the Catspace – although it is more of a holiday apartment than a traditional bluewater cruiser. Bali’s garage style sliding aft door does help offer an enormous amount of enclosed (or open) living space.

Best bluewater multihulls for luxury cruising

Photo: Nico Krauss

Privilège 510 Signature

The 510 is designed to take a serious amount of cruising gear – up to six tonnes of it in fact. The excellent helm station now has a fixed windscreen and all lines lead to hand. Finish quality including the electrical installation is first class and Privilege’s trademark, an admirable full beam (26ft) forward cabin, is sumptuous.

Photo: Jérôme Houyvet

Garcia Explocat 52

Garcia Yachts has cornered the market for series-built aluminium monohulls and multihulls in the last decade and this new Explocat 52 is sparking real interest. We ran a full test report in our February issue, describing it as a go-anywhere cat with an enticing combination of space, pace and rugged construction.

Read our review of the Garcia Explocat 52

Built in Argentina, the Antares 44 is the ultimate evolution of a model launched 21 years ago. Entirely dedicated to bluewater cruising, it is the yard’s only model and is constantly being improved according to owner feedback.

Time seems to have no hold on this boatyard and, against the trend, the standard equipment of the Antares 44 is extremely complete

Photo: Richard Langdon

Discovery Bluewater 50

This luxury Bill Dixon design may be a decade old now and into its third iteration, but the concept behind its original appeal remains. For those used to sailing high-end thoroughbred monohulls, here is an option to consider for a comparative level of build quality and fit out when moving to a multihull.

Read more about the Discovery Bluewater 50

St Francis 50 MKII

With this latest version of its original model, this experienced South African builder has optimised a catamaran cut out for the unforgiving seas of the Indian Ocean and the South Atlantic. The MKII allows for an increased load capacity, an important point in long distance cruising.

Xsquisite X5

Intelligent features on the X5 include the protected helm station with glass windscreen, integrated rainwater catcher, UV-protective glass and generous tankage.

Best bluewater multihulls for size & speed

Mcconaghy mc52.

The MC50 (now MC52) was the first and promises some high speed sailing, but it’s the open plan main living deck which will attract the majority. It incorporates an intelligent centreboard system, which hardly affects interior space, but arguably its exposed helms at the aft end of the flybridge will not suit serious ocean cruising.

Photo: Florian H. Talles

HH in Xiamen is building some really impressive large, luxury fast cats up to 90ft. This was its second model to launch, a high-end, high performance Morelli & Melvin design capable of rapid passagemaking speeds and enjoyable regatta sailing. Features include C-shaped boards and central or aft helms.

Photo: Mike Jones/Waterline Media

Ocean Explorer 60

If Nautor’s Swan made catamarans, they may look like this… The Ocean Explorer 60 uses the same designer in German Frers and some of the same builders who worked at the famous Finnish yard to produce this world cruiser. The resultant quality shines through. A new OE72 is due soon.

Kinetic KC54

A young company with plenty of experience, Kinetic produces custom fast ocean cruisers, which can occasionally race. Its 62 is a serious performance vessel with carbon hulls, rigs and rigging, daggerboards or centreboards. With fast bluewater cruising the goal, carbon is used to minimise weight so features/toys can still be added. The swim platform and hardware on the newly launched 54 weighs just 90kg, and the generous sized tanks are all in carbon too. Views from the saloon and forward cockpit also look special.

Best bluewater multihulls for ultimate performance

Marsaudon ts4/orc 42.

Few catamaran builders produce genuine performance cruisers at this ‘smaller’ size: this one is kept minimalist and light weight (around 6 tonnes) – the yard’s philosophy is ‘simplicity, then add lightness.’ The 42 is a cruiser-racer with the ability to outpace most yachts across the Atlantic, win a regatta and still offer some space for island hopping. Standard tankage is minimal however. Marsaudon recently rebranded its TS range to Ocean Rider Catamarans (ORCs) and has an ORC 57 in build.

Dazcat 1495

Dazcat builds fast, seaworthy cats from its Multihull Centre in Cornwall. The 1495 is a true ocean cruiser-racer, which is stiff and rewarding to sail, with direct steering linked to carbon rudders. The 1495 can hit 20+ knot speeds with relative ease, but it is the consistent high average speeds which will attract those looking to cover serious miles. Weight is centralised including engines, tanks, and systems all located amidships to help reduce pitching. Dazcat has a semi-custom build approach and creates all sorts of weird and wonderful craft for all abilities.

Dragonfly 40

Dragonfly trimarans are known for their high quality construction and ability to delight sailors with their ease of planing speeds. For those who can live without the space of similar length cats, the new flagship 40 is large enough to offer cruising space, while folding outriggers and retractable appendages mean you can dry out where others wouldn’t dare.

Looping 45/Freydis 48

These two designs by Erik Lerouge both offer a high-performance vision of ocean cruising. The Loopings were built individually and the Freydis in small series, and on both you can sail as fast as the wind in complete safety. Interior quality depends on whether finished by an amateur or by a shipyard.

Swisscat 48

An attractive combination of luxury, comfort and performance, the S48 is a stiff, go-anywhere premium cat that is easy to manage single-handed. The lightweight build (11t) is in epoxy infusion with carbon reinforcement.

Schionning Designs

Jeff Schionning has catamaran design in his blood. His designs exude performance and seaworthiness with flowing, even aerodynamic lines. On all tradewind routes you’ll find a G-Force (models from 12m to 23m) or an Arrow (12m to 15m) sailing more quickly than the rest. His latest venture is with Current Marine in Knysna, South Africa.

Best bluewater multihulls for pedigree cruising

The long-time best-seller from the world leader in catamarans, with more than 1,000 produced over almost 20 years from 1999. With its characteristic vertical windows, the 380 and its big brother the 410 made the purists scream when they were presented. But the 380 proved a pioneer of its kind. Safe bow volumes and light displacement (7,260 kg) helped its seaworthy behaviour. The high number of boats on the market makes this the most affordable bluewater cruising multihull for its size, even if price range is as wide as condition is variable.

Casamance 44/46

Between 44ft and 46ft depending on the year of construction and the length of its transoms, the Casamance was an impressive catamaran on launch in 1985. The design by Joubert/Nivelt offered good volume and load capacity. Of the 490 units produced, many joined the charter fleets. The exterior of the Casamance is dated, but the interior in grey ceruse oak has retained plenty of charm.

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Hawaii Blue Water Sailing

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1651 Ala Moana Blvd

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Hawaii Blue Water Sailing offers a unique and unparalleled sailing experience in the deep blue waters of Waikiki and Diamond Head. Caelestis is a luxury world cruiser built for comfort, speed and strength. She has circumnavigated the world and is perfect for sailing the clear blue waters of the Pacific Ocean. The combination of comfortable blue waters, exquisite tranquility, and the opportunity for genuine connection with nature creates an environment where one can truly escape and find peace. Immerse oneself in the beauty of nature while experiencing a profound sense of peace and adventure. The experience will touching your mind and soul, offering moments of pure wonder and awe. Book your unique sailing experience with us today! …

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Captain Matt, David, Shannon and Ryan couldn't have made us feel more welcome. The boat is immaculate with plenty of space for seating and a large cooler with ice. There is also a flat hatch that serves as a perfect place for all your snacks. Conditions were right, and we went for a good long sail and got up to 9 knots! It was a thrill. We anchored and got to snorkle and saw sea turtles. I've been on many sail boats and this one is unique as it is a custom boat which Captain Matt and crew keep very well. Our entire group had a fabulous time. Shannon even staged some great jump photos and others and sent them to us immediately. If you are looking for an exclusive and private experience on a top notch sail boat, with a very experienced captain, look no further. Mahalo to you all for making a memorable and perfect adventure for us. Epic day!

See all photos from Shannon B. for Hawaii Blue Water Sailing

What an amazing sunset cruise. It's always fun to play tourists as a local, but this cruise felt like we were part of the family. Captain Matt treated us as his friends going out for fun, very hospitable, gracious, and personable. He took his time meeting and chatting with everyone on board. Captain Matt is incredibly experienced as a sailor, not just close to shore, but open water - pan Pacific crossings by sail. Thank you for an incredible sunset! We'll be returning soon.

See all photos from joseph H. for Hawaii Blue Water Sailing

Discovered the thrill of sailing! We enthusiastically recommend these guys for an unparalleled experience!! The breathtaking sight of spinner dolphins and the chance for my husband to show off his sailing skills made for a truly inspiring day. The perfect combination of relaxation and excitement created a memory that will last a lifetime!

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Fantastic skilled Captain and crew, lovely relaxing day out of Waikiki! Really made the day memorable and fun!

See all photos from Shan W. for Hawaii Blue Water Sailing

It was interesting experience. Captain really professional dude. Fair price compared 2 more companies which was recommended in hotel. Definitely will recommend to all my friends

Matt is very accommodating. We needed a boat for a last minute Ute bachelor party and he was able to make this happen at the last minute. His price was very reasonable, especially comparing to other charters. His 65 foot yacht is very comfortable and fun to be on. The boat is sparkling clean, and has everything that is necessary for a day out of the sea. We will definitely sail with Matt again.

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May 14, 2024

Aloha Rafal! Thanks for the very considerate review. Sailing is a life changing journey and we're so glad you got the bug and purchased your own sailboat! Get your sailing skills dialed in and come help us sail very soon! Looking forward to having you out on Caelestis again! Remember, it's about the journey, not the destination!

Will never forget such a wonderful memorable experience. Thoroughly enjoyed every moment of the sail. The crew was great, everyone was friendly. The water was smooth and clear and the scenery was fantastic. Swimming in turquoise clear blue water is unforgettable. Definitely recommend!!

May 2, 2024

Aloha Mari! We're so glad it gave you that fantastic feeling you were looking for! It's what we do! It was great having you out sailing for the day! We hope to have you back onboard soon.

Hawaii Blue Water Sailing is No Ka Oi! Captain Matt and crew were friendly, funny and knowledgeable. Safety was his main priority but that never got in the way of the fun that was had by all. Pictures were from that day. Book a trip with Hawaii Blue Water it will be unforgettable.

Amazing sailing and crew! Everyone was so friendly! There were only a few people on board and plenty of room to spread out on the boat. The sail was relaxing and low-key. The captain took the time to anchor so we could swim and enjoy the water off Waikiki. We made new friends and plan to sail with Captain Matt again. A definite must!

May 1, 2024

Thank you Paula for coming out sailing with us. We loved meeting you and giving you an experience of a lifetime! See you again soon! Capt. Matt

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